“Scorching Heat: Parramore Battles Severe Heat Alert”

It’s scorching across Central Florida this week, and that includes Parramore, which is under a heat advisory.

Experts say it’s all part of something called the “heat island effect.”

That’s when all the concrete and buildings downtown soak up the sun during the day, then push that heat out into surrounding neighborhoods.

It’s not hard to tell — it’s extremely hot outside, especially in Parramore.

“It’s hot like hell,” said resident Calvin Jones.

Jones says the heat is so intense, he has to keep moving or risk overheating.

“Inside, outside, or go around the corner to the shade,” he said.

As reported by the Environmental Protection Agency, individuals residing in areas close to city centers—often those with lower incomes—are more prone to having existing health issues that can be exacerbated by intense heat conditions.

Jones, who takes medication for a heart condition and high cholesterol, says he has to keep his A/C running constantly. But that comes with a cost.

“My bill is like $300 – $400. Lucky last month it was only 200-something, and it went down,” he added.

Lawanna Gelzer, a community advocate, is using air quality monitoring devices funded by a federal grant in Parramore. She highlighted that the rising temperatures are aggravating pollution levels by trapping contaminants and emissions from the I-4 highway.

“The ozone can’t escape, so it remains trapped. Consequently, we are inhaling more hazardous substances than before,” explained Gelzer, a member of The Coalition of 100 Black Women of Central Florida.

To help the community prepare, her team is putting together extreme heat, hurricane, and disaster preparation kits.

“As we prepare for the new school year, while everyone desires nice backpacks and supplies, it would also be great if each child carried an electrolyte tablet in their backpack,” Gelzer remarked.

The city of Orlando is encouraging residents to utilize their local pools, which are accessible at no cost to Orlando inhabitants, to stay cool. City Commissioner Shan Rose mentioned the city has been awarded a $165,000 grant aimed at assisting residents in obtaining energy-efficient devices and considering solar energy solutions.

“Occasionally, renters express concerns like, ‘Reporting an issue might lead to increased rent,’ so we are offering support to offset some expenses and help reduce their bills,” stated Rose.

While that part of the program is still in the works, the city plans to roll out the initiative at a later date. Officials are also working on a tree program to add more shade in Parramore and other areas of the city.